There can be no question as to the meaning of this expression. The (...) (rhomphaia) a sharp or two-edged sword, is four times attributed to the Lord in this prophecy, viz., i.16; ii.12,16; xix.15,21. [35] And in each case it has to do with slaying and not with speaking; with deeds and not with words. It is "the captain of the Lord's host" come with his sword (Josh. v.13). It is the sword of Jehovah come to execute His judgments (Isa. xxxiv.6); and with which He will plead with His people (Is. lxvi.16). It is the sword referred to under other titles (Isa. xi.4 and 2 Thess. ii.8), with which, at His coming in judgment, He will destroy the Man of Sin, the Lawless one. the sword is no priestly weapon; nor can it have any relation to or connection with the Church of God in any aspect whatsoever: for grace characterises all relations between "Christ and His Church." Footnotes: [35] It occurs also in Luke 2:35, making five times in all. |